Teens working on a diversity project in March. Courtesy/JJABLATC News:
In honor of loved ones lost to suicide throughout the year, the Los Alamos YMCA Teen Center is offering space Thursday during the high school lunch period, 11:15 a.m. to noon, and after high school lets out 2:45 p.m. for teens to be around other teens and consider becoming involved in the student-led “Reach Toward Not Away” effort.
“Reach Toward Not Away” is a student-run positive outreach plan to equip students with tools to help themselves and each other when someone feels stressed, anxious, depressed or suicidal. The ultimate goal is to have as many students as possible take a pledge of accessing the following support tools in these cases:
- Jason Foundation “A Friend Asks” app (https:////jasonfoundation.com/get-involved/student/a-friend-asks-app/) – a phone app that guides through seeking help when someone is thinking about self-harm or suicide;
- Stress and Anxiety Helpline and Chat Service (www.unm.edu/~agora) – a free 24/7 help line or chat service to contact when life feels overwhelming; and
- New Mexico Homework Hotline (https:////atfunion.org/programs/dial-a-teacher/) – a free homework hotline run by NM teachers 4:30-8:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
With Strength in Numbers, We Can Make a Difference!
Creative space and supplies, as well as snacks, will be provided at Thursday’s events.
The Los Alamos YMCA Teen Center also will hold its regular Arts & Resiliency programming Thursday afternoon after school, which is held every Thursday and funded through JJAB.
“It is a great space to process and explore ideas and emotions through creative projects and artistic mediums,” Teen Center Director Sylvan Argo said. “We also have our Open Mic Night/Jam Session every Thursday evening at which new folks are always welcome – and it would be a great opportunity tomorrow if people want to express themselves or gather with friends to enjoy live music.”
The Los Alamos YMCA Teen Center is at 3900 Trinity Dr. For more information, call 505.500.8073.
About the Los Alamos Teen Center
The Los Alamos Teen Center provides a safe place for teenagers attending Los Alamos High School to congregate, study, play video games and have fun. Admission to the teen center is free to Los Alamos teenagers and individuals attending Los Alamos Public Schools. Center operations are funded by Los Alamos County and administered by The Family YMCA. Numerous project partners and individuals donate time and money to enable the Center to offer enriching, engaging and inspiring activities and programs for teens. Daily attendance averages 40 to 70 teenagers.
